toefl writing tips

7/21/2019 TOEFL Writing Tips

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4041507/

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https://sites.google.com/site/honesty/toefl/toefl-og-writing

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https://www.ets.org/toefl/pbt/scores/writing_score_guide/

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The important thing is that you can identify the parts of the sentence. Simplify a sentence that has many terms you don't understand by using simple words of the same form. Your job is to make a sentence correct. Always make sure that every sentence has a subject and a verb. Look at the punctuation in the sentence. You should be able to recognize the structure (for example, prepositional phrase or

noun clause) even if you don't understand what the sentence means. Don't choose the first letter that looks wrong until you try every choice. You might find two that look wrong. Then you have to make an educated guess.Secrets for the Reading sectionJust like in the structure section, it is not important that you know every word in the reading section. Concentrate on the areas that the questions pertain to. Skim through the passage, read the questions, then read for more detail. The questions usually come in the order they appear in the passage. Anticipate the type of questions you will be asked in this section. At least 60 percent of the readings will have a main idea question. You will be asked at least two vocabularyquestions from each reading. You will also be asked some detailed questions andsome inference questions. You will not have time to reread a whole passage.Secrets for the Writing section

You will have 30 minutes to write the essay on the CBT. The paper based tests is sometimes accompanied by the TWE (Test of Written English). You will not have access to a spell check function on the CBT. The most important thing is to keepyour writing simple and clear. Don't use vocabulary and punctuation that you are unsure of. You will not impress the reader. When you practice for this section, find a format that you are comfortable with. Use this format every time. For example, your thesis might always be in the third sentence of your introduction. You might always end your conclusion with a question. Make sure to use lots of examples to support your essay. Transitional words and phrases will make your essay read smoothly. Memorize a list of these and practice using them. Always leavetime to review what you have written. Read your essay silently in your head.



Para conseguir uma boa pontuação no Toefl writing test:

utilizar um modelo universal que a gente decora e na hora muda só o assunto respondendo a pergunta ou tema proposto para redação

o modelo deve ter no mínimo 4 partes:

primeiro parágrafo: introdução com ideia principal, objetivo do texto, com 2 ou 3 frases.

segundo parágrafo : colocar um exemplo, usar expressões que ligam :

It is time to introduce your first example. Avoid being abrupt. Start with a transitional phrase that will smoothly transition from your introduction to your body paragraph 1.

Here are some recommended transitional phrases:

As demonstrated by ... As shown by ...e parece que pontua quando coloca 3 exemplos.

usar also ...., ( também Fulano, e ainda Sicrano observaram o mesmo efeito...

Terceiro parágrafo:Vai explicar o que o exemplo do parágrafo 2 quer dizer, ampliar a análise, demonstrar raciocínio.

quarto parágrafo:Em conclusão...Your conclusion is extremely important as it is the final piece of information graders will read before grading your essay. Think of it as the last impression you leave on your graders ± the stronger it is, the higher the score. Your conclusion must be succinct, to the point, and, most importantly, well crafted.

Atentar para coisas que tiram pontos:não esquecer ponto final das frases, colocar vírgulas.exemplo: no português não é permitido separar o sujeito do verbo com vírgulas.

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Essay Writing Strategy: Using Universal Template

Exemplo conjunto de início de parágrafos:

The issue stated by the topic is...... This is a very important subject because...

However, ....



Furthermore, .... For this reason ...

Finally, .... this conclusions points that ...

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muitos exemplos de redação:

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http://www.toeflresources.com/index.php?id=sample-toefl-type-one-essay-iron-fertilization

Essay Writing Strategy: Using Universal Template

Posted in English Essay Strategies

How to get a perfect score on your test Essay? Even if you suck at writing essay. Follow this advice and you'll get a better chance to have a perfect score on your personal opinion essay section.

This strategy is being used successfully by thousands of students to raise their essay score in the shortest possible time. A high score, even for the weakest of writers, is absolutely in reach!

5 Key Points:

Create your own template ± your "Universal Essay Template" Research your 25 default examples. Learn to write a strong thesis sentence: Work on transitions. Create an interesting introduction and a strong conclusion.

Students frequently ask the following question about Essay:

1. How many words should I memorize?



ANS: 1,000-5,000, depending on your previous exposure to the test

2. Which books should I read to prepare for the critical reading section?

ANS: Combination of novels, magazines, journals, and textbooks

3. How about dictions and idioms? How many are there?

ANS: Less than 100 idioms and dictions

4. Can I predict possible essay prompts?

ANS: Absolutely!

5. Can I guarantee at least a double-digit score on my essay?

ANS: Absolutely!

Many academies and private tutors claim that you cannot prepare a specific essay on a particular topic in advance, but I disagree. I am not talking about cheating on the test, but being prepared for all possible scenarios, to the point that nothing can surprise you.. The essay section of the test can indeed be predicted, prepared, and mastered before you even step into the test site.

The Essay: The 80:20 Rule

Let's take a scientific approach to the essay. Unlike the other sections of thetest, the verbal section is feared by many students because of the abundance ofadvanced vocabulary, grammar rules, unpredictable reading genres, and essay prompts.

The best approach:

Instead of trying to figure out what prompts and/or passages to expect, why notconcentrate on the design of the Test itself ± in this case the essay ± so no matter what is thrown at you, you are not easily surprised and you can calm yourself by having a step-by-step plan already in place.

So, I came up with the "80:20 Rule." This rule applies not only to your test, but also to almost all other standardized tests. The concept is simple: Find waysto predict and prepare for 80% of the test, and only worry about 20% (which canalso be mastered) during the test. How? Simple. Again, learn the design, put yourself in the Test Taker's shoes, and learn the tricks so you don't fall into the traps. I will give you plenty of examples and guidelines, so don't panic!

Basics of the Essay

1. You are only given 25 to 30 minutes to complete the essay. But trust me ... when you take the real test, it's not going to feel like a whole 25 minutes. Make sure you give yourself less time when practicing (16-18 minutes), so you can bu

ild up mental and physical stamina.

2. Be aware of the psychological effect of the essay section. In most cases, the essay will always be the first section of the test. If you mess it up for whatever reason, it's going to haunt you for the rest of the test. But if you nail it, you will gain the confidence to continue to the rest of the sections.

3. More and more test taker companies are using computers to score your essay. So do not veer off topic! Answer the question. If you don't, you will receive a grade of zero. Believe me ... I have seen it happen.



If not scored by a computer, then most essays are scored by two human graders. Remember, though, that each grader has only a minute or so to read and grade your essay. That is why highlighting certain sections of your essay might do the trick to help you succeed.

How to Prepare for the 80:20 Rule

There are 10 steps you must learn and master. Once you have your own custom-made template, 25 quality examples, 3 to 5 transitions, and detail plug-ins, you are ready to tackle all possible prompts.

Key Terms:

1. Universal Template: A pre-built template/structure that you can use to writeyour essay.

2. 25 Quality Examples: Edison, JFK, and Hitler are elementary examples. Also use high-quality examples, such as Jack Welch, Howard Schultz, Steven Jobs, the Enron scandal, the Patriot Act, etc. Remember! Most essays are graded by computer (E-rater) which also uses templates as scoring benchmark, so personal quality examples can also be used. In case it is graded by a human grader, he or she will get only a minute or so to read and grade your essay. You must backup your opinion with examples to impress them.

3. Transitions: There are pre-built transitions that you can easily pick and choose to smooth out the flow of your essay. I will give you some examples as we go.

4. Plug-ins: Plug-ins are all details that were pre-researched, pre-written, and memorized ± ready to be used at a moment's notice.

So, Here Are the 10 Steps:

Step 1 (20 seconds): Brainstorm and come up with three to five quality examples.

Do not choose a side before you come up with examples. This is extremely importa

nt because without examples you will not be able to complete your essay. In other words, your opinion does not matter unless you can support it. Let your examples dictate which side you choose ± not the other way around.

Step 2 (10 seconds): Agree or disagree with the prompt.

Now that you have three to five examples, it is time for you to take a stance. Agree or disagree with the prompt. If it is an open-ended question, by now you should have come up with a response.

Step 3 (1 minute): Write your thesis:

Follow this simple formula to write you thesis. Later, you will be allowed to ma

ke it more personal by adding adjectives, examples, etc., but for now, I want you to stick with this. Why? To create a backbone to your thesis writing so you know exactly what to do and what not to miss.

First, start with the keyword. If the prompt is: "Honesty is always the best policy," then start with "honesty" so your reader/grader knows that you are on point. After your keyword, immediately agree or disagree with the prompt.

For example: Honesty is crucial ... (Agree) OR Honesty can be detrimental ... (Disagree). Once you've done this, then you have to explain the Why and the How. W



ithout this step, all you are doing is repeating the prompt. You must explain why you agree or disagree with the prompt.

For example: Honesty is crucial to build and maintain trust.

Bad Intros:

1. Ladies and gentlemen ...2. What would Jesus do? ...3. Once upon a time ...4. "Failure is the mother of success!!!" ...

Step 4 (1 minute): Complete your introduction.

Now spend a minute or so completing your introductory paragraph. Make sure you write at least two sentences but no more than three, as you'll run out of time.

My version: <thesis. several="" examples="" from="" history="" current="" events="" literary="" works="" classic="" films="" science="" clearly="" demonstrate="" that="" keyword="" is="" paraphrased="" thesis.="">

For example: Honesty is crucial to build and maintain trust. Several examples from literary works and current events clearly demonstrate that honesty always prevails.

That's it. Two sentences are good enough for your essay. I am not saying don't write more, but there is no need to write five to six sentences. It's important that you move on since you only have 25 minutes to complete a full-length essay.Remember! This is not your typical school essay, in which you have to develop your thesis and write your thesis at the end of your introductory paragraph. Moststandardized test essays do not work that way. You must get straight to the point, answer the prompt/question, and move on to your examples. That's the only way you'll finish on time.

Step 5 (1 minute): Write your transitional thesis:

It is time to introduce your first example. Avoid being abrupt. Start with a tra

nsitional phrase that will smoothly transition from your introduction to your body paragraph 1.

Here are some recommended transitional phrases:

1. As demonstrated by ...2. As shown by ...3. In the novel 1984 by George Orwell, ...4. In the film Metropolis by Fritz Lang, ...5. Through the actions of ...6. , Description, ...

Then you have to add a modified version of your thesis. You need to add your exa

mple and blend it with your thesis to make it more relevant.

For example: In the novel 1984 by George Orwell, Winston's rebellious thoughts/actions are direct results of the party's deceptive/dishonest political tactics.

Step 6 (2 minutes): Use accelerated plug-in 1.

This is where the 80:20 Rule really shines. Now that you have pre-researched and memorized all details related to your example(s), it's time to make full use of them and plug them in to build volume and persuasive content. Give yourself two



minutes to write at least six sentences of pure supportive details/content. Ofcourse, all details/content must be relevant to the prompt! If not, you are padding; that will get you not a zero, but a very low score.

Important: Make sure you pepper your plug-in with some statistics, full names, and dates ± a sure tactic to impress your graders.

AWFUL: "Students should not play PS3 because my mom told me so!"

BAD: "Students should avoid playing PS3 because I play it three to four hours aday and my GPA is 2.5"

OKAY: "Students should avoid playing PS3 as it may lead to a lower GPA, dependency/addiction to gaming, and distraction from other important activities/duties."

GOOD: "According to the National Behavioral Research Center (NBRC), students who play PS3 for more than an hour a day will likely develop a Game Dependency Syndrome, which will negatively affect students' GPA their chances of getting into college."

Step 7 (1 minute): Provide personal Input (PI).

Now that you've plugged in everything you know about your first example, it's time to make some sense out of it and tie your plug-ins back to the prompt. Withou

t a clear explanation and/or justification of why you plugged in those details,your paragraph will just be a copy-pasted version of Wikipedia.

Write one to two sentences ± in your own words ± about how your plug-ins help support your thesis.

Suggested transitions:

1. Therefore,2. Hence,3. Thus,

For example: Therefore, Winston's actions prove that (government/leaders/country

/party's) dishonesty/deception can lead to societal/widespread chaos and rebellion.

Step 8 (8 minutes): Repeat the above process two times.

Remember! You need three examples/three body paragraphs ± not two. Providing three examples/body paragraphs is another way to guarantee a double-digit score.

Step 9 (2 minutes): Write a strong conclusion: The power of "indeed."

Your conclusion is extremely important as it is the final piece of information graders will read before grading your essay. Think of it as the last impression you leave on your graders ± the stronger it is, the higher the score. Your conclusi

on must be succinct, to the point, and, most importantly, well crafted. By this, I mean that you should not leave such an important part of your essay up to improvisation. You must pre-plan for this and create multiple plug-ins.

For example: After a careful analysis of X, Y, Z (Plug-ins), Keyword is "indeed" Modified Thesis. . .

For example: After a careful analysis of 1984, Of Mice and Men, and Fahrenheit 451, one can see that honesty is, indeed, the best policy in building and maintaining long-lasting trust. Without honesty, societies can fall into chaos. Staying



true to one another is the only way to prevent such destructive happenings/occurrences.

Step 10 (1-2 minutes): Whew! You're almost done.

All you need to do now is go back and make sure you did not make any silly mistakes. Spend a minute or so revising and proofreading your essay. I've seen so many silly mistakes from my students that I must ask you to not make these same mistakes.

Sample Template

Q: Is honesty always the best policy?

Honesty is crucial to build and maintain trust. Several examples from history/current events/science/literary works clearly demonstrate that KEYWORD...

As demonstrated by EXAMPLE 10, . ....................................(six sentences)..................................... Therefore/Hence/Thus ...

After a careful analysis of X, Y, and Z, KEYWORD is INDEED crucial to... Had X,Y, Z been KEYWORD, they would have/not have ...

Universal Template

Make sure the template you build can be applied to all possible personal opinion prompts. The key is to make it generic/broad enough. For example, Intro Plug-In: "Several examples from..." is generic enough that you can use it no matter what the prompt.

Time Management

Give yourself less time during practice; 16-18 minutes should do to simulate the real test. Trust me ... when you take the real test, it is not going to feel like a whole 25 or 30 minutes. Because of all the pressure and anxiety, you will feel rushed ± thus, 16-18 minutes are perfect to prep for this section.

Subjective Nature

Graders are humans after all, and there is no way of predicting how they will react to your essay. Even E-raters benchmark their scores on human graded essays.That is why relying on a proven template is a safer way to go than improvising during the test. Avoid using controversial examples such as those relating to religion, politics, race, and gender. You never know who will be reading and grading your essay.

Length

Some students believe that longer essays get higher scores. This is not true. A300-word essay that is well-organized and has few grammatical mistakes will alwa

ys be better than a 400-word essay that lacks these qualities. Moreover, longeressays usually have more grammatical mistakes and less-developed supporting ideas. The lesson here is this: don't focus so much on length and word count. Instead, focus on organization, development of ideas, and use of language.

Legibility

If you are not writing directly on computer, make sure your handwriting is readable. Write legibly and make sure that your writing is not too big or too small.



Vocabulary

Too many students make the mistake of using excessive words in hopes of impressing the graders. Don't be a pretender! only use those words that you are comfortable using. Sometimes, it is better to just use simple words as long as you can get your point across.

Grammar

You won't be penalized severely as long as you don't make obvious mistakes. Graders understand that you are writing under pressure and that you are only given limited minutes to write a full-length essay. Therefore, spend the last few minutes or so proofreading for obvious/silly mistakes.

Few More Points to Remember

Make Up Any Proof You Want: When you're looking for examples to supporet your argument, almost all standardized tests allow you to draw examples from anything at all. Some of the high-scoring essay writers choose to draw examples from history and litrature, but some of them draw examples from their own lives. Some Imperfect Grammar and Spelling Are OKay Details, Details: All high scoring essays sue detail examples to support thier claims or arguments.

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The ªrhetorical modeº for an answer may be determined by your instructor. For example, you may be asked to analyze, define, compare/contrast, evaluate, illustrate, or synthesize the subject of the question, and you need to focus on answering the question with an analysis, a definition and so on in order to respond to thequestion appropriately.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAuWkFKbkHoTOEFL Writing Templates (Independent Essay)

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http://www.poynter.org/how-tos/writing/76067/fifty-writing-tools-quick-list/

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Writing and testing seriesDirectives for essays, reports, tests..

"Directives" ask you to answer, or present information, in a particular way.Review these, and most of all note that there are different waysof answering a question or writing a paper!

Compare:

Examine qualities, or characteristics, to discover resemblances. "Compare" is usually stated as "compare with": you are to emphasize similarities, although differences may be mentioned.

Contrast:Stress dissimilarities, differences, or unlikeness of things, qualities, events, or problems.

Criticize:Express your judgment or correctness or merit. Discuss the limitations and goodpoints or contributions of the plan or work in question.

Define:

Definitions call for concise, clear, authoritative meanings. Details are not required but limitations of the definition should be briefly cited. You must keep in mind the class to which a thing belongs and whatever differentiates the particular object from all others in the class.

Describe:In a descriptive answer you should recount, characterize, sketch or relate in narrative form.

Diagram:



For a question which specifies a diagram you should present a drawing, chart, plan, or graphic representation in your answer. Generally you are expected to label the diagram and in some cases add a brief explanation or description.

Discuss:The term discuss, which appears often in essay questions, directs you to examine, analyze carefully, and present considerations pro and con regarding the problems or items involved. This type of question calls for a complete and entailed answer.

Enumerate:The word enumerate specifies a list or outline form of reply. In such questionsyou should recount, one by one, in concise form, the points required.

Evaluate:In an evaluation question you are expected to present a careful appraisal of the problem stressing both advantages and limitations. Evaluation implies authoritative and, to a lesser degree, personal appraisal of both contributions and limitations.

Explain:In explanatory answers it is imperative that you clarify and interpret the material you present. In such an answer it is best to state the "how or why," reconcile any differences in opinion or experimental results, and, where possible, stat

e causes. The aim is to make plain the conditions which give rise to whatever you are examining.

Illustrate:A question which asks you to illustrate usually requires you to explain or clarify your answer to the problem by presenting a figure, picture, diagram, or concrete example.

Interpret:An interpretation question is similar to one requiring explanation. You are expected to translate, exemplify, solve, or comment upon the subject and usually togive your judgment or reaction to the problem.

Justify:When you are instructed to justify your answer you must prove or show grounds for decisions. In such an answer, evidence should be presented in convincing form.

List:Listing is similar to enumeration. You are expected in such questions to present an itemized series or tabulation. Such answers should always be given in concise form.

Outline:An outline answer is organized description. You should give main points and essential supplementary materials, omitting minor details, and present the information in a systematic arrangement or classification.

Prove:A question which requires proof is one which demands confirmation or verification. In such discussions you should establish something with certainty by evaluating and citing experimental evidence or by logical reasoning.

Relate:In a question which asks you to show the relationship or to relate, your answershould emphasize connections and associations in descriptive form.



Review:A review specifies a critical examination. You should analyze and comment briefly in organized sequence upon the major points of the problem.

State:In questions which direct you to specify, give, state, or present, you are called upon to express the high points in brief, clear narrative form. Details, and usually illustrations or examples, may be omitted.

Summarize:When you are asked to summarize or present a summarization, you should give in condensed form the main points or facts. All details, illustrations and elaboration are to be omitted.

Trace:When a question asks you to trace a course of events, you are to give a description of progress, historical sequence, or development from the point of origin. Such narratives may call for probing or for deduction.

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Vocabulary and spelling series

Transitional Words & Phrases

Using transitional words and phraseshelps papers read more smoothly, and at the same time allows the reader to flowmore smoothly from one point to the next.

Transitions enhance logical organization and understandabilityand improve the connections between thoughts. They indicate relations,whether within a sentence, paragraph, or paper.

This list illustrates categories of "relationships" between ideas,followed by words and phrases that can make the connections:

Addition:also, again, as well as, besides, coupled with, furthermore, in addition, likewise, moreover, similarly

When there is a trusting relationship coupled with positive reinforcement, the partners will be able to overcome difficult situations.

Consequence:accordingly, as a result, consequently, for this reason, for this purpose,hence, otherwise, so then, subsequently, therefore, thus, thereupon, wherefore

Highway traffic came to a stop as a result of an accident that morning.

Contrast and Comparison:contrast, by the same token, conversely, instead, likewise,on one hand, on the other hand, on the contrary, rather,similarly, yet, but, however, still, nevertheless, in contrast

The children were very happy. On the other hand, and perhaps more importantly, their parents were very proactive in providing good care.

Direction:here, there, over there, beyond, nearly, opposite, under, above,



to the left, to the right, in the distance

She scanned the horizon for any sign though in the distance she could not see the surprise coming her way.

Diversion:by the way, incidentally

He stumbled upon the nesting pair incidentally found only on this hill.

Emphasisabove all, chiefly, with attention to, especially, particularly, singularly

The Quakers gathered each month with attention to deciding the business of their Meeting.

Exception:aside from, barring, beside, except, excepting, excluding, exclusive of, other than, outside of, save

Consensus was arrived at by all of the members exclusive of those who could notvote.

Exemplifying:

chiefly, especially, for instance, in particular, markedly, namely,particularly, including, specifically, such as

Some friends and I drove up the beautiful coast chiefly to avoid the heat island of the city.

Generalizing:as a rule, as usual, for the most part, generally, generally speaking, ordinarily, usually

There were a few very talented artists in the class, but for the most part the students only wanted to avoid the alternative course.

Illustration:for example, for instance, for one thing, as an illustration,illustrated with, as an example, in this case

The chapter provided complex sequences and examples illustrated with a very simple schematic diagram.

Similarity:comparatively, coupled with, correspondingly, identically, likewise, similar, moreover, together with

The research was presented in a very dry style though was coupled with examplesthat made the audience tear up.

Restatement:in essence, in other words, namely, that is, that is to say, in short, in brief, to put it differently

In their advertising business, saying things directly was not the rule. That isto say, they tried to convey the message subtly though with creativity.

Sequence:at first, first of all, to begin with, in the first place, at the same time,



for now, for the time being, the next step, in time, in turn, later on,meanwhile, next, then, soon, the meantime, later, while, earlier,simultaneously, afterward, in conclusion, with this in mind,

The music had a very retro sound but at the same time incorporated a complex modern rhythm.

Summarizing:after all, all in all, all things considered, briefly, by and large, in any case, in any event,in brief, in conclusion, on the whole, in short, in summary, in the final analysis,in the long run, on balance, to sum up, to summarize, finally

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Intelligent MachinesMany of the goods and services we depend on daily are now supplied by intelligent, automatedmachines rather than human beings. Robots build cars and other goods on assembly lines, where oncethere were human workers. Many of our phone conversations are now conducted notwith people butwith sophisticated technologies. We can now buy goods at a variety of stores without the help of ahuman cashier. Automation is generally seen as a sign of progress, but what is lost when we replacehumans with machines? Given the accelerating variety and prevalence of intelligent machines, it is

worth examining the implications and meaning of their presence in our lives.Read and carefully consider these perspectives. Each suggests a particular way of thinking about theincreasing presence of intelligent machines.

Perspective OneWhat we lose with the replacement of people by machines is some part of our ownhumanity. Even our mundane daily encounters no longer require from us basic courtesy, respect, and tolerance for other people.



Perspective TwoMachines are good atlow-skill, repetitivejobs, and at high-speed,extremely precise jobs.In both cases they workbetter than humans.This ef ciency leads toa more prosperous andprogressive world foreveryone.

Perspective ThreeIntelligent machineschallenge ourlong-standing ideasabout what humans areor can be. This is goodbecause it pushes bothhumans and machinestoward new, unimaginedpossibilities.

Essay Task

Write a uni ed, coherent essay in which you evaluate multiple perspectives on theincreasing presence of intelligent machines. In your essay, be sure to:· analyze and evaluate the perspectives given· state and develop your own perspective on the issue· explain the relationship between your perspective and those givenYour perspective may be in full agreement with any of the others, in partialagreement, or wholly different. Whatever the case, support your ideas with logicalreasoning and detailed, persuasive examples.

Planning Your EssayYour work on these prewriting pages will not be scored.Use the space below and on the back cover to generate ideas and plan your essay.

You may wish toconsider the following as you think critically about the task:Strengths and weaknesses of the three given perspectives· What insights do they offer, and what do they fail to consider?· Why might they be persuasive to others, or why might they fail to persuade?Your own knowledge, experience, and values· What is your perspective on this issue, and what are its strengths and weaknesses?· How will you support your perspective in your essay?

Sample Essay 6

Ideas and Analysis: Score = 6

Development and Support: Score = 6Organization: Score = 6Language Use and Conventions: Score = 6

Begin WRITING TEST Here.

Advances in technology have become so widely accepted in today's culture that very few people are willing to pause to consider the consequences. People get so excited about what new technologies can offer that they forget to question whether there might be any negative effects. Without caution and deliberation, replacin



g the natural with the mechanical would undoubtedly be disasterous.

The economic implications of the potential mechanical takeover alone should beenough to dissuade anyone from moving too fast. In the event the robots are more widely used in the workplace, humans would surely be replaced. At first, businesses would benefit from the efficiency of robots, but eventually a depressed job market would lead to a population that struggles just to feed themselves and their families, let alone purchase the products these robots make. In the long run, society will suffer if it does not take care to prevent the economic consequences of giving everything over to machines.

Our careless use of automation has already taken a toll on our culture. Peoplehave been interacting with automation in nearly every aspect of their lives, whether it be shopping, banking, or the use of a telephone. The effect of this is obvious: basic respect for our fellow man is all but absent today because of increased interaction with automation. Why treat a machine with kindness? It suffers no emotional or psychological damage. In a culture saturated with automation, we get used to treating machines rudely, and we begin to treat each other rudely. This of course leads to all sorts of issues, like intolerence and incivility, and in the long run, results in the complete degradation of culture.

Even in the face of these obstacles, some people argue that the increasing intelligence of today's machines is a good thing. After all, machine power can decrease the human work load. Computer processers double in power and ability every yea

r. Computers are projected to reach human intelligence by as soon as 2025. The implications of this shift are unknown, but one thing is for certain. We are moving into this change too fast to anticipate and prevent damage to the human species. We are approaching this change too quickly for any sort of safety net to bebuilt. Because of this, it is important that we as a species slow down our technological development so that we might consider all the implications of a changethis big. We must figure out how to handle negative societal and cultural consequences before we embrace total integration of automated, intelligent machines.

Decreasing the speed with which we incorporate mechanical influence is important because of the potential dangers that lurk in blind acceptance. Not only doesthe preference of the mechanical over the natural interfere with the job marketand the economy, but its use also has the potential to seriously degrade our cul

ture as a whole. In combination with the uncertainty surrounding the increasingintelligence of machines, it is most assuredly better for the human species that technological progress be slowed so that we can, if necessary, prevent additional damage.

Scoring Explanation

Ideas and Analysis = 6By framing the issue as a matter of reckless technological abandon, the writer establishes an insightful context for analysis of the issue and its perspectives. This context informs a nuanced, precise thesis: Though we are inclined to welcome technological advancement with open arms, ªthe potential dangers that lurk in blind acceptanceº necessitate ªcaution and deliberationº as we determine how to make us

e of intelligent machines. In advancing this thesis, the writer examines the economic and cultural implications of moving too quickly into the age of automation. In doing so, the writer has generated an argument that critically engages with multiple perspectives on this issue.

Development and Support = 6An integrated line of reasoning and illustration effectively conveys the argument's significance by exploring the economic and cultural implications of the mindless incorporation of intelligent machines. Hypothetical examples (In the event the robots are more widely used in the workplace) and skillful reasoning (The impl



ications of this shift are unknown, but one thing is for certain. We are movinginto this change too fast to anticipate and prevent damage to the human species) develop and support the thesis by drawing out and making persuasive its meaning and importance. The final body paragraph complicates the argument by concedingboth the benefits of machine power and the unprecedented sophistication of modern technologies, using these concessions to reinforce the call for moderation and deliberationÐas we reach new technological heights, it is even more important that we ªfigure out how to handleº potential unintended consequences.

Organization = 6As with its development and support, a persistent focus on exploring the thesisbenefits the organization of this response. This skillful strategy is driven byits controlling idea, which shapes the argument as it progresses logically froma discussion of future economic implications to a treatment of present-day cultural conditions to an examination of opposing viewpoints. Effective transitions between paragraphs reflect this organizing principle (The economic implications of the potential mechanical takeover; Our careless use of automation has alreadytaken a toll on our culture; Even in the face of these obstacles, some people argue that the increasing intelligence of today's machines is a good thing), while transitions within paragraphs serve to clarify and strengthen the writer's reasoning (At first, but eventually, This of course, After all). All told, this strategy increases the effectiveness of the argument.

Language Use = 6

Precise vocabulary (societal and cultural consequences, intolerence and incivility, emotional or psychological damage) and a variety of clear sentence structures reflect advanced skill in the use of language. So too does the prose itself, which is largely free of errors. Of particular note are the writer's strategic stylistic choices. Words like degrade, depressed, and damage work to establish

Sample Essay 5

Ideas and Analysis: Score = 5Development and Support: Score = 5Organization: Score = 5Language Use and Conventions: Score = 5

Begin WRITING TEST Here.

It is no secret that today's workforce no longer consists entirely of people. Rather, machines are being developed to complete many of the tasks which humans have traditionally done. This can greatly increase productivity and efficiency of simple, repetitive tasks. Many people view this as a great positive and point outthat it leads to a more uniform and less expensive product which is better for everyone. However, some people are more wary of this popular trend of automatingthe workforce and question whether this progress is truely positive. Their concerns, though, are outweighed by the benefits these machines offer.

It is the popular view among companies which are moving toward automation that robots can do many tasks better than humans. For example, in the automotive indus

try, most of a car's individual components are manufactured by pre-programmed robots which have much greater and more precise output than would be possible for ahuman. In addition, robots cut down the cost of production by a considerable amount. If a company hires an employee to complete a simple task for $50,000 per year but could instead buy a machine for a one time purchase of $30,000, it is far more cost effective to buy the machine. Lower cost of production means that the goods produced can now be sold at a lower pricepoint which passes the savings on to the consumer. Companies producing goods rightly contend that the use of machines to complete low-skill jobs has only positive impact for everyone.



Beyond these benefits for industry, some believe that machines will shape the future for the human race. Innovation and invention of new more intelligent machines can push us as humans toward new, unimagined possibilities. For example, before the first airplane was invented, people could only dream of human flight, but at the moment of takeoff, a whole new world of unimaginable possibilities was suddenly within our grasp. Through even just that one invention, an entire multi-billion dollar a year industry was born, and our lives improved and advanced ina multitude of ways. Who can know what great advancements may be brought about by a more intelligent machine than what we possess today? The possibilities are endless.

There are those who are less enthusiastic about all this progress and advancement. They argue that by not having to interact with fellow humans, we no longer are required to be courteous and have tolerance for others. While this may be true, this is a minor cost for a major increase in efficiency. Take the example of self checkout systems in grocery stores. Self checkout permits consumers to procure their goods and get out of the store quickly. This might seem like a small time-saver, but considering how often this experience is repeated reveals a cumulative effect. Across time, consumers end up saving hours, which improves the efficiency of their daily lives, allowing them to spend time on things that are of greater interest and meaning to them.

Whether humans like it or not, machines are becoming more and popular in the workplace and are decreasing the need for humans to work those jobs. This can lead

to advancement of society, a greater end product or service, and even a lower consumer cost of goods. Many people are frightened of change, but unfortunately for them, the past is gone and now we must look to the future.

Scoring ExplanationIdeas and Analysis = 5This argument engages productively with multiple perspectives. By viewing each perspective through the lens of a particular ideology, the writer establishes and employs a thoughtful context for analysis. Within this context, the writer articulates and addresses implications that range from benefits for industry to efficiencies for consumers. Competing views are also evaluated within this framework of capitalist ideals. The writer grants that intelligent machines reduce humaninteractions in places like the grocery store but argues that this is a good thi

ng, as it allows for a more efficient experience for the consumer. In this way,the writer has addressed two values in tension, and an evaluation of the conflict serves to advance the argument.

Development and Support = 5The essay is focused on its purpose throughout; the entire response works in service of the larger argument. The reasoning and illustration in each body paragraph function to deepen understanding of why the writer believes that the benefits of intelligent machines outweigh potential drawbacks. In using hypotheticals to explain her thinking, the writer responds to anticipated questions. For example, when she claims that robots cut down the cost of production by a considerableamount, she answers the question of how with an example that illustrates the difference between the ongoing salary of a regular employee and the one-time cost o

f a machine. She extends the idea further by noting that decreased cost of production means that the goods produced can now be sold at a lower pricepoint whichpasses the savings on the consumer, making clear the larger significance of this point. This careful thought process makes for a compelling, well-developed argument.

Organization = 5The writer employs a productive organizational strategy. The introduction presents a roadmap for discussion, and this outline serves as a unifying force for the argument. The argument progresses logically: the writer first establishes benef



its of the increasing presence of intelligent machines and then attempts to strengthen her case by acknowledging and rebutting a counterargument. Transitions are used when necessary and appropriate, making the connections among ideas readily apparent and contributing to a smooth, pleasurable read.

Language Use = 5This response exhibits several markers of advanced language use. Word choice and sentence structures are precise and diverse, and are used to communicate complex ideas with relative concision. A formal, academic tone demonstrates strong comprehension of the rhetorical situation and works in service of the writer's measured argument.a sense of alarm or dread, which underscores the writer's call for consideration of the potential consequences she perceives. In the final body paragraph, the writer uses repetitive sentence constructions (We are, We are, We must) as the argument moves into its call for action. These rhetorical flourishes work to clarify the thesis and make persuasive its implications, thus enhancing the argument.

Use this Sample Basic Essay as a Model

The essay below demonstrates the principles of writing a basic essay. The differ

ent parts of the essay have been labeled. The thesis statement is in bold, the topic sentences are in italics, and each main point is underlined. When you write your own essay, of course, you will not need to mark these parts of the essay unless your teacher has asked you to do so. They are marked here just so that you can more easily identify them.

"A dog is man

s best friend." That common saying may contain some truth, but dogs are not the only animal friend whose companionship people enjoy. For many people, a cat is their best friend. Despite what dog lovers may believe, cats make excellent housepets as they are good companions, they are civilized members of the household, and they are easy to care for.

In the first place, people enjoy the companionship of cats. Many cats are affect

ionate. They will snuggle up and ask to be petted, or scratched under the chin.Who can resist a purring cat? If they

re not feeling affectionate, cats are generally quite playful. They love to chase balls and feathers, or just about anything dangling from a string. They especially enjoy playing when their owners are participating in the game. Contrary to popular opinion, cats can be trained. Using rewards and punishments, just like with a dog, a cat can be trained to avoid unwanted behavior or perform tricks. Cats will even fetch!

In the second place, cats are civilized members of the household. Unlike dogs, cats do not bark or make other loud noises. Most cats don

t even meow very often. They generally lead a quiet existence. Cats also don

t often have "accidents."Mother cats train their kittens to use the litter box, and most cats will use it without fail from that time on. Even stray cats usually understand the concept

when shown the box and will use it regularly. Cats do have claws, and owners must make provision for this. A tall scratching post in a favorite cat area of thehouse will often keep the cat content to leave the furniture alone. As a last resort, of course, cats can be declawed.

Lastly, one of the most attractive features of cats as housepets is their ease of care. Cats do not have to be walked. They get plenty of exercise in the houseas they play, and they do their business in the litter box. Cleaning a litter box is a quick, painless procedure. Cats also take care of their own grooming. Bathing a cat is almost never necessary because under ordinary circumstances cats c



lean themselves. Cats are more particular about personal cleanliness than people are. In addition, cats can be left home alone for a few hours without fear. Unlike some pets, most cats will not destroy the furnishings when left alone. Theyare content to go about their usual activities until their owners return.

Cats are low maintenance, civilized companions. People who have small living quarters or less time for pet care should appreciate these characteristics of cats. However, many people who have plenty of space and time still opt to have a catbecause they love the cat personality. In many ways, cats are the ideal housepet.

Home Return to the essay home page.This site created by Kathy LivingstonEmail MeAll Rights Reserved

Write the Introduction and Conclusion

Your essay lacks only two paragraphs now: the introduction and the conclusion. These paragraphs will give the reader a point of entry to and a point of exit from your essay.

Introduction

The introduction should be designed to attract the reader

s attention and give her an idea of the essay

s focus.

Begin with an attention grabber.The attention grabber you use is up to you, but here are some ideas:

Startling informationThis information must be true and verifiable, and it doesn t need to be totallynew to your readers. It could simply be a pertinent fact that explicitly illustrates the point you wish to make.If you use a piece of startling information, follow it with a sentence or two of elaboration.Anecdote

An anecdote is a story that illustrates a point.Be sure your anecdote is short, to the point, and relevant to your topic. This can be a very effective opener for your essay, but use it carefully.DialogueAn appropriate dialogue does not have to identify the speakers, but the reader must understand the point you are trying to convey. Use only two or three exchanges between speakers to make your point.Follow dialogue with a sentence or two of elaboration.Summary InformationA few sentences explaining your topic in general terms can lead the reader gently to your thesis. Each sentence should become gradually more specific, until you reach your thesis.If the attention grabber was only a sentence or two, add one or two more sentenc

es that will lead the reader from your opening to your thesis statement.Finish the paragraph with your thesis statement.Conclusion

The conclusion brings closure to the reader, summing up your points or providing a final perspective on your topic.

All the conclusion needs is three or four strong sentences which do not need tofollow any set formula. Simply review the main points (being careful not to restate them exactly) or briefly describe your feelings about the topic. Even an ane



cdote can end your essay in a useful way.

The introduction and conclusion complete the paragraphs of your essay.Don

t stop just yet! One more step remains before your essay is truly finished.

Proceed Go on to the next step. Return Return to the previous step. HomeReturn to the essay home page.This site created by Kathy LivingstonEmail MeAll Rights Reserved

http://www.theeasyessay.com/

The Easy Essay ℗orWhere was this when I was in school?Most Common TOEFL Essay Mistakes, Part 1TestMagic has given score estimates to thousands of TOEFL essays since 1998, both on-line and in our TOEFL classes. Over the years, we have seen a lot of the sa

me mistakes over and over again, and have put together some tips to help you.

Here

s the first mistake, although it is not necessarily the most common mistake or the most important one:

Failure to restate the topic

{Content2}We see a lot of essays that start like this:

Yes, I agree wholeheartedly with this point. This issue is a very important one, and I agree with it for several important reasons.

First, ¼

Can you figure out why this essay introduction is not good? It sounds pretty good. The grammar is good. So what

s wrong with it?

This introduction is not good for the TOEFL because it does not introduce the reader to the topic. In other words, after we read this introduction, we are not sure what the essay is going to be about.

The person who writes an essay introductoin like this is probably thinking thatthe reader already knows the essay prompt (the "question" or topic of the essay) and doesn

t think that she needs to restate the topic.

For the TOEFL essay, it is most certainly true that the reader of your essay does know what the essay prompt is, but the TOEFL test taker must still introduce the topic of the essay in the introduction.

The rule of thumb in English (our English teachers tell us this over and over) is that we should write the essay as if the reader had no previous knowledge of the topic we are writing about. This means that you should be sure to restate the essay prompt (it

s best to paraphrase the prompt, not copy it word for word) and to explain the things in the essay that the average reader would not know about.



If you really do not know how to restate the topic, and you only need a TOEFL score of 4.0 or maybe 5.0, you could simply copy part of the prompt in your introduction.

Let

s look at the simplest way to do this.

Imagine that our TOEFL essay topic is something like "do you agree or disagree that learning about the past is not important?"

In a perfect world, you would paraphrase (restate in your own words) the essay prompt when you wrote your introduction, something like this:

Although many believe that we should live in the present, I strongly believe that the past holds valuable lessons for everybody to learn.

First, ...

However, for some people, doing this may be difficult, especially if they are still learning English. (Actually, we

re all still learning English, but you knowwhat I mean.)

So, if you need something simpler, the easiest way to restate the topic would be to copy the words exactly as they appear in the essay prompt, but make them fit

in your introduction:

I strongly disagree that learning about the past is not important. This issue is a very important one, and I disagree with it for several important reasons.

First, ¼

This intro is not great writing, but it at least tells us what the essay is going to be about.

That

s it for this tip. I hope it helped!

Quiz: Answers

1. ______ not very healthy.

A Eaten cookies is

B Eating cookies are

C Eating cookies which are

D Eating cookies is

The grammar point in question is this: Is eating a present participle or a gerund? In this case eating is a gerund and is the subject of the verb is. This one can be tricky to explain and to understand, so if you have any questions, pleasepost them in our forum.

2. Your job is ______ your TOEFL score.

A working hard and raising

B which works hard and raising



C worked hard and raised

D to work hard and raise

The grammar rule you need to know is this:

job + BE-VERB + INFINITIVERemember that synonyms of job follow the same rule: task, function, duty, etc.

3. The population of the US is ______.

A greater than Canada

B more than the population Canada

C greater than that of Canada

D greater than Canada

s one

This question tests you on comparisons. We sometimes refer to this type of question as an "apple and oranges" question. In this type of question, we need to compare two populations. The that in C is a pronoun and refers to population. If you chose A, you were comparing population and Canada, which ETS considers illogic

al.

4. You make ______.

A me happily

B me happy

C happy me

D me to happy

For this one we need to remember this rule:

make + NOUN + COMPLEMENT (usually an adjective or noun)The complement modifies the second noun (me), so we should use an adjective or another noun, NOT an adverb.

5. Mother Theresa dedicated ______ the poor.

A her life and helped

B her life to helping

C her help and life

D to help

People miss this one because they think that after to we need the base form of the verb. However, to can also be a preposition, so we need to remember when to is a preposition and when it

s part of the infinitive.

6. The guy ______ my brother.

A you saw was



B that saw

C who saw

D that saw you

Grammar point: that is sometimes optional in adjective clauses. When is it optional, you ask? When the head noun is the object or complement of the subordinateverb. Did you get that??? Better ask Erin Billy in the forum...

7. You are the first person ______ I am funny.

A to tell me

B telling me that

C who telling me

D that tells me to be

Important grammar pattern:

first + NOUN + infinitiveThis is on the TOEFL a lot, and a lot of students ask TestMagic about this, so y

ou should be familiar with this pattern.

8. ______ pretty funny.

A You said

B You said that

C What you said was

D The thing

Grammar focus: NOUN CLAUSE as SUBJECT of the verb. People tend to miss questions

when the subject is a noun clause.

9. ______ a new student.

A The room came

B The room came into

C Into the room came

D Came into the room

Grammar point: Inversion. People mess up on inversion and ellipsis more than the

y do on any other grammar points on ETS

s tests. If you

re shooting for a high score, learn this!

10. Robin Hood stole from ______ poor.

A rich and gave

B the rich and gave to the

C the rich and giving



D rich and the

And last but not least, we need to remember that we can do this in English:

the + adjective = adjective peopleSo:

the rich = rich people

the poor = poor people

the gifted and talented = gifted and talented people

http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/prepare/quick_prep/

http://www.grammarbank.com/toefl-grammar-test.html

http://www.grammarbank.com/grammar-quizzes.html

http://www.studyenglishtoday.net/Tests/toefl-structure-test1.htmlteste quiz com resposta na hora e score

http://www.studyenglishtoday.net/future-continuous-tense.html

https://www.4tests.com/exam/toefl/2/with explanation

Section: Structure

3)New York is a large city, _____?aren

t itdoesn

t itwon

t itisn

t itExplanation

A tag question uses the same verb as the main part of the sentence. If the mainpart is positive, the negative form is used; if it is negative, the positive form is used in the tag.

http://www.englishpage.com/conditional/conditionalintro.html

http://www.englishpage.com/conditional/mixedconditional.htmlVerbs in green are in the Present Unreal Conditional.

Verbs in red are in the Past Unreal Conditional.

Verbs in purple are in the Future Unreal Conditional.

Mixed Conditional Patterns



PASTPRESENTExamples:

If I had won the lottery, I would be rich.But I didn

t win the lottery in the past and I am not rich now.If I had taken French in high school, I would have more job opportunities.But I didn

t take French in high school and I don

t have many job opportunities.

http://esl.about.com/od/englishgrammar/

http://esl.about.com/library/quiz/bl_advancedreview.htm?lastQuestion=1&answers=1&submit=Next+Question+%3E%3E&ccount=1

https://www.ego4u.com/en/cram-up/grammar/conditional-sentences/exceptions/exercises?05

https://www.ego4u.com/en/cram-up/grammar/conditional-sentences/exceptions/exercises

http://www.learnenglishfeelgood.com/conditional-future-present1.html#

http://esl.about.com/od/teaching_tenses/a/How-To-Teach-Present-Continuous.htm

http://esl.about.com/od/grammarstructures/ig/Tenses-Chart/presperf3.htm#step-heading

Zero ConditionalWhen we talk about things that are generally or always true, we can use:

If/When/Unless plus a present form PLUS present simple or imperative

If he gets there before me, ask him to wait.When you fly budget airline, you have to pay for your drinks and snacks.Unless you need more space, a small car is big enough for one person.Note that we are not talking about a specific event but something which is generally true.

In the condition clause, we can use a variety of present forms. In the result clause, there can only be the present simple or imperative.

If you visit London, go on the London Eye.If unemployment is rising, people tend to stay in their present jobs.If you

ve done that, go and have a coffee.When you go on holiday, take plenty of sun cream. It

ll be very hot.

When I

m concentrating, please don

t make so much noise.When I

ve finished an article, I always ask Kate to read it through.Notice that

unless

means the same as

if not

.

Unless he asks you politely, refuse to do any more work on the project.Unless prices are rising, it

s not a good investment.Unless you

ve been there yourself, you don

t really understand how fantastic itis.



Return to List of Grammar Lessons

http://englishgrammarsecrets.com/type0/menu.php

http://englishgrammarsecrets.com/type0/exercise1.html

http://web2.uvcs.uvic.ca/elc/studyzone/330/grammar/0cond1.htm

http://englishgrammarsecrets.com/firstconditional/exercise2.html

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/grammar/grammar_challenge/

http://www.eslgamesworld.com/members/games/ClassroomGames/Billionaire/Conditionals%20Billionaire%20Game/

http://www.eslgamesworld.com/members/games/templates/index.html

http://www.testmagic.com/toefl/toefl-essay/most-common-toefl-essay-mistakes.asp

http://www.tvdsb.ca/webpages/jartan/grammar.cfm?subpage=226478

toefl writing tips

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